The ingenious AySystem mobile alarm

February 28, 2007 German Telecommunications giant Siemens is preparing to market a diminutive multi-purpose device that can be used as a mobile alarm, a fitness trainer and an emergency call system for the elderly and disabled. The functionality of the multi-sensor, modularly constructed AySystem can be expanded to include a camera and a GPS positioning module. The GSM/GPRS-based device (Ay) is about the size of a pack of cards, and has a dedicated Web interface (AyPilot.com). It features integrated motion, sound and temperature sensors, as well as a loudspeaker, and also enables two-way voice communication. If the threshold of a programmed sensor setting is exceeded, the device immediately notifies the user (e.g. by sounding an alarm, sending a text message or opening a voice call). This first-of-its-kind security, personal safety and monitoring solution provides users continuous real-time status updates on anyone or anything anywhere in the world – all of the time. The device can be remotely controlled via the dedicated Web interface for a broad range of uses, both private (e.g. child, elderly and handicapped care, room monitoring and protection of personal belongings) as well as business-related (e.g. tracking and tracing goods and delivery vehicles, providing personal security for employees, and optimizing business processes). The AySystem literally serves as an extension of yourself and your business – as a sensory protective presence.

To ensure user-friendly and self-explanatory operation, only four buttons are positioned around the display. AySystem has its own Internet access for full remote control. All settings can be made quickly and easily via the web.

Sensors on the base device, which can be used anywhere in the world, register sound, temperature and movement. The basic configuration enables a wide array of applications. Users can enter their own threshold values for sound or temperature into the alarm function. If these values are not reached or are exceeded, the device – which can be installed in cars, holiday homes and hotel rooms and can even be used as a baby phone – will send an SMS or establish a voice connection via the mobile network.

The motion sensor makes it easier to monitor individuals with special needs. AySystem notifies caregivers if an elderly person has fallen or is motionless. The other way around, people with special needs can use the display as an emergency call button to summon rapid assistance. The device then dials one or more pre-stored phone numbers. In other emergencies, the built-in loudspeaker functions as an alarm.

Since AySystem is linked to the Internet, it can be coupled with a GPS module to detect movement. For example, jogging and mountain bike routes can be transmitted directly to the Web. Users can also check the position of pizza delivery vans and taxis online.

Unlike other, similar mobile devices, AySystem is based on a java platform available to all programmers. As a result, it can be quickly and easily tailored to specific customer needs. Via built-in interfaces, users can connect up to four additional features. Rechargeable batteries have the same lifetime as standard mobile phone batteries in standby mode. Powered by solar cells, the devices could be operated independently of power grids. The system will be available via mobile phone contracts or pre-paid cards.